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CD Reviews

Nice Set For Trombone(s).

Robert J. Ament | Ballwin, MO United States | 09/16/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you like trombone you will dig this little known cd.
Robert Trowers has some years with the Basie organization and this is the second album out under his own name. Seven of the selections are played in a quartet setting. The rhythm section gives more than adequate support throughout with Gene Jackson on drums, bassist Marcus McLaurine (hear him on Sonny Rollins' "St. Thomas"), and Richard Wyands on piano (catch him on "Have You Met Miss Jones", "St.Thomas", and "'Deed I Do").As a bonus, three of the selections become quintets with the addition of trombonists Al Grey, or Slide Hampton, or Fred Wesley. Fred Wesley I'm not that familiar with other than he played with Count Basie in the 60's and 70's before joining and playing a lot with James Brown (not my bag!). However, he plays some kickin' trombone on "R&B" which, according to the liner notes, stands for Rhythm and Bop. The trombone duos remind me a lot of the great JJ Johnson and Kai Winding colaborations.The closeout selection, "End Of A Love Affair", showcases all four trombonists as a section and as soloists.My favorites are "St. Thomas", an original blues called "Riff", "Statement", "R&B", and the closer,"End Of A Love Affair". It's a very good trombone bop set which I've found to be very enjoyable."